Spring Cleaning Tips :: Make it Fun and Profitable!

It's that time of year again. The cold air has retreated, the trees are budding and we're rolling up our sleeves to do some spring cleaning! Yes, it's a dreaded time for many, as a big cleanup is often disorganized and tiring... but it doesn't have to be! Here are some tips for freeing up some cash as an extra bonus to getting your home and yard straightened up, as well as some ways to make spring cleaning fun for the whole family!

Spring Cleaning Tips:

• Sit down with the family and brainstorm about changes you want to make around the house; make a good list and stick to it.

• Challenge the kids to see who can rake up the most leaves -- the excitement of competition may make them forget they're doing work!

• Organize a garage sale (AKA yard sale or tag sale), giving each member of the family a chance to put some cash in their pockets, and remove clutter at the same time.

• Consider painting or redecorating certain rooms to give a great new feel to the house.

• Think of ways to make your home more environmentally friendly. Going green can make you feel better and save a lot of money over time as well!

• Don't make spring cleaning a grueling marathon-like event... break up the day by playing some games outside or having a picnic together.

• Take the opportunity to fix any water leaks or insulation breaches that may be hurting your home's energy efficiency. Free money!

• If you live in a rural or wooded area and have dogs or cats, this is a good time to treat them for ticks and fleas since they will probably be spending more time outdoors. Being proactive can save your pets' health, not to mention money on veterinarian bills!

• Search your sofas, love seats and recliners for loose change and other treasures. Ditto underneath your car seats. You may even find other lost items you've been missing.

• Replace old light bulbs with energy efficient low-wattage units to save money in the long run.

• You might even want to install a solar panel or two if you can afford it. There are very durable and potent panels available today, and it's possible to completely eliminate electric bills (even get a check from your utility company for energy you return to the power grid).

So you see, spring cleaning doesn't have to be a pain in the neck... Be creative and make it a productive and memorable bonding experience with your loved ones! Your newfound tidiness will be a welcome bonus.